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Entry Level Environmental Science Jobs in Augusta, ME

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Entry Level Environmental Science information

See Augusta, ME salary details

$12

$21

$34

How much do entry level environmental science jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 19, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level environmental science in Augusta, ME is $21.78, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.12 and $25.00 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are entry level environmental science jobs?

Entry level environmental science jobs are positions designed for individuals who are new to the environmental science field, typically recent graduates with a bachelor's degree in environmental science or a related discipline. These roles may include titles such as environmental technician, field assistant, laboratory analyst, or environmental consultant. Responsibilities often involve collecting and analyzing environmental data, assisting with fieldwork, preparing reports, and supporting environmental monitoring or remediation projects. These positions provide valuable hands-on experience and are a stepping stone to more advanced roles in environmental science.

What types of projects do entry-level environmental scientists typically work on, and how much fieldwork is involved?

Entry-level environmental scientists often assist with site assessments, environmental monitoring, data collection, and report preparation for projects such as pollution investigations, habitat restoration, or regulatory compliance. The amount of fieldwork varies by employer and project, but you can expect a mix of office-based analysis and on-site sampling or observation, sometimes requiring travel or outdoor work in various weather conditions. These projects offer valuable hands-on experience and opportunities to collaborate with engineers, senior scientists, and regulatory agencies, helping you build both technical and teamwork skills early in your career.

What is the difference between Entry Level Environmental Science vs Environmental Technician?

AspectEntry Level Environmental ScienceEnvironmental Technician
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in environmental science or related fieldAssociate's degree or relevant certification, some roles may require a bachelor's
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, field sites, government agencies, consulting firmsFieldwork, sampling, data collection, laboratory analysis
Employer & Industry UsageUniversities, government agencies, environmental consulting firmsEnvironmental consulting, government agencies, industrial sites
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

Entry Level Environmental Science roles typically require a bachelor's degree and involve research, analysis, and project planning in various environmental settings. Environmental Technicians often focus on field sampling and data collection, sometimes with an associate's degree or certification. Both roles are essential in environmental work, but they differ mainly in educational requirements and daily tasks.

How to start a career in entry level environmental science?

To start a career in entry level environmental science, obtain a relevant bachelor's degree such as environmental science, biology, or chemistry. Gaining practical experience through internships, volunteering, or research projects and developing skills in data analysis, GIS, and environmental monitoring can improve job prospects. Certifications like the EPA's Environmental Professional Certification or OSHA safety training can also be beneficial.

Is it hard to get a job in entry level environmental science right now?

Entry level environmental science jobs are competitive but accessible for recent graduates with relevant skills such as data analysis, fieldwork, and knowledge of environmental regulations. Job availability depends on location, industry demand, and individual qualifications, with opportunities often found in government agencies, consulting firms, and non-profit organizations.
More about Entry Level Environmental Science jobs

What job categories do people searching Entry Level Environmental Science jobs in Augusta, ME look for?

The top searched job categories for Entry Level Environmental Science jobs in Augusta, ME are:

What cities near Augusta, ME are hiring for Entry Level Environmental Science jobs?

Cities near Augusta, ME with the most Entry Level Environmental Science job openings:

Entry Level Environmental Science jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Environmental Science job openings in Augusta, ME as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 22% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 73% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 23% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $45,305 per year, or $21.8 per hour.

Clinical Laboratory Scientist

Veterans Health Administration

Augusta, ME • On-site

$72K - $139K/yr

Full-time

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.

Veterans Health Administration rating

8.1

Company rating: 8.1 out of 10

Based on 1,005 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

69th of 888 rated healthcare providers

Job description


QualificationsBasic Requirements:
  • United States Citizenship: Non-citizens may only be appointed when it is not possible to recruit qualified citizens in accordance with VA Policy
  • English Language Proficiency: Candidates must be proficient in spoken and written English in accordance with 38 U.S.C. § 7403 (f)
  • Education: A bachelor's degree or higher from an accredited college or university
  • Certification: (1) Candidates must meet one of the certification options below.(a) Generalist certification as an MLS given by ASCP BOC or AMT.(b) Generalist certification as an MT given by ASCP BOR or AMT.(c) Categorical certification or Specialist certification by ASCP or AMT
  • NOTE: Categorical and specialist certifications are not acceptable for CLS Generalist positions or lab sections unrelated to the categorical or specialist certification held
  • Categorical or specialist certifications are acceptable for higher-graded positions within the relevant lab section or one of the non-section specific assignments (including, Ancillary Testing Coordinator, Education Coordinator, Laboratory Information Manager, Quality Manager, Laboratory Manager, Regional Technical Specialist, National Quality and Compliance Agent, Regional Program Manager, Regional Director, Laboratory Director, or National Quality and Compliance Officer)
  • GS-07 Experience: None beyond the basic requirements
  • Assignment: Employee at this level serves in a CLS entry-level position
  • It is expected that they receive guidance from more experienced staff members and require daily direct supervision
  • GS-09 Experience or Education: Candidates at this level must meet one of the criteria below: Experience: One (1) year of creditable experience equivalent to the next lower grade (GS 7)
  • OR
  • Education: Master's degree or two (2) academic years of progressively higher-level graduate education in medical technology or a directly related science
  • Assignment: An individual at this grade level serves as a developmental CLS
  • The CLS is responsible for evaluating, performing, interpreting, and validating the accuracy and validity of test results
  • The CLS demonstrates a clear progression of clinical knowledge and experience by performing testing procedures on a variety of biological specimens using manual or automated methods
  • This includes routine testing, quality control, routine maintenance of instrumentation, and troubleshooting that applies innovative procedures and problem solving
  • Deviations from regular procedures, unanticipated problems, and unfamiliar situations are referred to more experienced staff for a decision or assistance
  • Assignments at this level will include developmental duties of increasing scope and diversity as compared to the entry level
  • It is expected that a CLS at this grade performs more complex work while receiving less frequent supervision than at the entry level
  • In addition to the experience or education above, the candidate must demonstrate the following KSAs: (a) Knowledge of policies and procedures of clinical laboratory testing
  • (b) Knowledge of laboratory quality control and quality assurance principles
  • (c) Knowledge of laboratory equipment and routine maintenance
  • (d) Ability to work as a team member and effectively complete assignments
  • (e) Ability to read and interpret written instructions
  • (f) Ability to accurately perform pre-analytical, analytical, and post-analytical phases of testing
  • GS 11 Experience or Education: Candidates at this level must meet one of the criteria below: Experience: One (1) year of creditable experience equivalent to the next lower grade level (GS 9)
  • OR
  • Education: Must have three (3) full years of progressively higher-level graduate education or a Ph.D. or equivalent doctoral degree in medical technology or a directly related science
  • Assignment: This is considered FPL for a CLS
  • A CLS at this level independently carries out the day-to-day operations in the laboratory
  • The CLS develops, performs, evaluates, interprets, correlates, and validates the accuracy of laboratory procedures and results in line with current laboratory regulatory requirements
  • The work performed may be in a variety of laboratory specialties such as chemistry, microbiology, immunology, hematology, and immunohematology
  • Testing procedures are performed on a variety of biological specimens and/or environmental samples using manual or automated methods
  • In addition to routine testing, the CLS conducts quality control and routine maintenance of instrumentation and troubleshooting
  • The CLS correlates abnormal lab data with pathological states, determines the validity of test results, and the need for additional tests
  • Specific targeted laboratory responsibilities or projects may include laboratory safety officer, analyzer specialist, primary operator on new test systems, quality control specialist, supply control, and/or coordinator for the laboratory competency assessment or proficiency/survey program
  • This assignment may include limited duties in areas such as lab information management and ancillary testing
  • These tasks require a broad exercise of independent judgment and responsibility, including organizing and setting priorities with minimal technical supervision
  • The CLS assesses a situation, considers the options, and formulates an appropriate course of action
  • This assignment includes monitoring quality control systems and measures, collaborating in the diagnosis and treatment of patients, and providing education for laboratory health care professionals and the public in a professional, courteous, and effective manner
  • In addition to the experience or education above, the candidate must demonstrate the following KSAs: (a) Knowledge of professional clinical laboratory science principles, practices, concepts, and theories that support sound, independent work
  • (b) Knowledge of laboratory quality control and quality assurance procedures and principles of performance improvement
  • (c) Skill in informatics, laboratory data flow, and laboratory processes
  • (d) Ability to maintain, troubleshoot, and repair instrumentation
  • (e) Ability to use independent technical judgment to analyze and interpret laboratory results
  • (f) Ability to read, interpret, and apply complex written instructions
  • (g) Ability to communicate, consult, and interact with other members of the health care team, external relations, customer service, and patient education
  • Reference: For more information on this qualification standard, please visit https://www.va.gov/ohrm/QualificationStandards/
  • The full performance level of this vacancy is GS 11
  • The actual grade at which an applicant may be selected for this vacancy is in the range of GS 7 to GS 11
  • Physical Requirements: See VA Directive and Handbook 5019, Employee Occupational Health Service for requirements.

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About Veterans Health Administration

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The Veterans Health Administration (VHA) is the largest integrated health care system in the United States, serving millions of Veterans each year. Located in Phoenix, AZ, and many other parts of the US, the VHA operates under the Department of Veteran Affairs, as suggested by their official website va.gov. The VHA is dedicated to providing the highest level of comprehensive care to its veterans. The organization offers a broad spectrum of medical, surgical, and rehabilitative care, including mental health services, research, and pharmacy benefits.

Industry

Health care and social assistance

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Phoenix, AZ, US

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